Paragliding Long Reef SE

Long Reef, Sydney, Australia This site is occasionally used and offers great cliff soaring opportunities, though it can be challenging. It's a good spot for novice pilots to build up their hours with easy ridge soaring and stunning views down to Manly. Region: Sydney, Australia Site Record: 20.2 km More information: [Long Reef NE](http://www.hgfa.asn.au/~nbflyers/site_long_reef_ne.htm) Description: Long Reef is a small coastal ridge soaring site with a steep coastal hill covered in grass, scrub, and shale. The ridge runs from beach level at the western end up to the crown of the headland and then slightly southeast down to sea level at the eastern end. The area is mostly free of trees due to the salt air. Takeoff: For paragliders, the takeoff is from a grassy area partway along the walking track on the southern face. The area can be level or slope backward away from the ridge. Pilots need to take a few steps down a steep 'goat track' that goes directly over the edge. Space is limited to one pilot at a time. Experienced pilots often launch unaided, but assistance can simplify the process. Landing: The easiest landing option is the beach to the southwest. If you get low, you can land on narrow bits of sand and tidal rock shelf in front of the takeoff, but be cautious as the rock shelf is covered by shallow water at high tide. Top landing is relatively easy, but avoid drifting too far back due to rotor presence behind the launch. If blown over the back, head west away from the higher ridge and land in the golf course. Flight: The lower level of controlled airspace is at 2500 feet. Hazards/Comments: This site is popular with model aircraft flyers. The main hazards are the launch and small landing areas below the launch at high tide. The steep slope can cause the wing to overshoot, so be prepared to check it early. Novices should seek help for their first few launches. Conditions become gusty and lift uneven when the wind is from the west or south, making it unsuitable for novices. Location: On the southern face of Long Reef Point, 45 minutes drive from Sydney city. Park in the car park near the golf club and walk along the path past the lookout to the southern side. Alternatively, use the Long Reef beach car park and walk along the Greenlink track. Parking meters are available in both car parks. Contact: Sydney Paragliding & Hang Gliding Club More information: [Fly Sydney](http://www.flysydney.com.au/pages/flying-sites-list) Coordinates: 33.74232°S, 151.31297°E